Abstract

I would certainly be remiss if I did not express my deep appreciation for the honor you have bestowed in giving me the opportunity to serve our Society this year and for the privilege which that provides for this presentation.

Failure of our nation to translate the encouraging expressions of increased interest in international health into effective program activities will reflect a gross lack of both humanitarian concern and enlightened self-interest. The central thesis of this presentation is that to be truly effective such programs must be much more holistic than most of our past efforts and, in particular, that they must give appropriate recognition to the contributions which veterinary medicine and comparative medicine can make in improving human health and welfare. The scope and complexity of this subject permit only a brief and selective summary in this presentation.†

Comment about meaning of words in the title will perhaps assist in establishing the perspective for the discussion.